Animal Care Crew Leader

Under supervision of the Animal Services Supervisor and Animal Services Manager, the Animal Care Crew Leader is an important part of League City Animal Care’s team. This position is responsible for assisting in the supervision and training of the kennel staff in the care and well-being of LCAC’s resident pets, conducting physical exams to evaluate animals’ physical condition, performing in-shelter diagnostic laboratory tests, administering vaccinations, and providing medical care and treatment in accordance with LCAC policies and veterinary partners.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for providing high-quality care to animals, demonstrate excellent organization, leadership ability, as well as customer service skills that provide a high level of pleasant professional service to all clients, staff, and volunteers.  The position will work independently and responsibly while observing all health and safety guidelines and contribute enthusiastically to the positive culture and mission of LCAC at all times. 

This position is designated as Safety Sensitive and is therefore subject to random drug screening.

• Lead, supervise, and motivate animal care technicians, ensuring quality performance in operations and policy compliance.
• Coordinate with supervisors to ensure all pets in our care receive high-quality, comprehensive care by providing appropriate housing, enrichment, and low-stress modifications to their environment that addresses their physical and emotional well-being.
• Oversee intake exams for incoming animals from field officers and the public.
• Create and maintain accurate medical records for each animal using the ShelterLuv software.
• Evaluate animals for illness, injury, and ongoing medical conditions; ensure timely treatment.
• Perform in-clinic diagnostic testing such as fecal exams, heartworm tests, skin scrapings, and blood draws.
• Implant microchips and document medical records accurately using ShelterLuv software.
• Maintain strict adherence to cleaning, feeding, watering, and medicating protocols.
• Educate pet owners on vaccinations, infectious diseases, preventatives and treatments
• Enforce safe, humane, and Fear Free handling techniques for all animals.
• Conducts and assists with humane euthanasia.
• Properly implement and oversee all animal feeding, watering, and medicating procedures, including supply management and inventory control for associated areas.
• Properly implement and oversee all cleaning and sanitizing procedures for kennels and cages, including supplies management and inventory control for associated areas.
• Coordinate work schedules and assignments for animal care technicians to ensure effective coverage. In addition, review, audit, and approve employee timekeeping.
• Maintain professionalism in personal appearance and behavior, representing the City positively to the public, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate with the Animal Services Supervisor, Community Outreach Coordinators, and Animal Care Protection Crew Lead regarding the transportation of animals between the animal shelter and the veterinary office, including driving when necessary.

Non-Essential Job Functions:

• Manage and responsibly use an assigned Purchase Card (P-Card), ensuring appropriate and discretionary spending of city funds, maintaining accurate receipts and records, and adhering to all financial policies and guidelines. Request or approve purchases for field equipment, uniforms, or other supplies.
• Provide support to other shelters or City departments as needed.
• Participate in collaborative projects and special initiatives.
• Train and assist Animal Protection Officers when necessary.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Animal Shelter Supervisor, Animal Services Manager, Director, or his/her designee including but not limited to assisting at the Adoption Desk, Resource Center, and Community Outreach Coordinators.

• Must have high school diploma or GED equivalent
• Possess a valid Texas driver’s license
• At least one year (1) experience in animal welfare or related veterinary technician experience
• At least one year (1) previous leadership or supervisory experience
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including holidays and weekends

Required Certifications:

• Humane Euthanasia Certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire date and maintain the certification
• Fear Free Shelters Certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire date and maintain the certification

Preferred Experience and Certifications:

• Direct veterinary technician shelter experience 
• Bilingual in Spanish/English
• Experience with DEA regulations and controlled substance protocols

• Ability to understand and adhere to departmental policies and procedures, local and state animal welfare laws and ordinances.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and training skills.
• Ability to interact positively with the public, even in high-stress situations.
• Effective communication and conflict resolution skills with the public, supervisors, and fellow employees, verbally and in writing. 
• Ability to conduct thorough investigations and prepare accurate reports.
• Skilled in handling and restraining animals of various species, sizes, and temperaments.
• Proficiency in database management and basic computer applications.
• Ability to work with frequent interruption and changes in priorities.
• Ability to make closely coordinated eye/hand movements within very fine tolerance and/or calibration demands.
• Ability to maintain required certifications and actively participate in ongoing professional development, including annual CEU training, conference attendance, and field-specific legal updates.
• Knowledge in Fear Free dog and cat handling techniques and animal restraint methods.
• Knowledge of basic methods and techniques of veterinary procedures.
• Knowledge of veterinary terminology.
• Skill in diagnostic procedures related to animal care.
• Ability to understand animal husbandry principles to ensure optimal care for pets in our facility.
• Skill in DEA regulations and controlled substance protocols.

Physical Requirements:

• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, walk long distances, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to sit, carry, crouch, bend, stoop, kneel on both knees, push/pull and perform multiple tasks simultaneously including maneuvering into and out of vehicle frequently. 
• Work with cleaning chemicals and solvents.
• Work with animals in residence, some with unpredictable behavior.
• Ability to work 10-hour shifts in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment:
This position involves working in an animal shelter setting where there may be frequent exposure to shelter animal noise, waste and odor, dander and hair, hazardous chemicals, and aggressive animals. Work may be performed indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Salary : $21 - $31